Opinion in favour of protecting coral reefs

Nov 6th, 2009
There is a remarkable consensus of opinion on the need to protect coral reefs, such as those in the Caribbean, by whatever means possible.

According to a study from Oregon State University and the University of Hawaii, the vast majority of visitors to Hawaii's reefs are passionate about protecting such ecosystems.

Many would back whatever level of protection is necessary to keep the reefs alive for future generations.

Researcher Mark Needham explained that he was shocked at how much people wished to protect the ecosystem "for its own sake".

"In most natural resource issues, we find conflicts over management for economic value versus environmental preservation or protection, but we really didn't see that here," he said.

Mr Needham added that the survey found visitors agreed that if human use of reefs was proving harmful then they would be happy to put a stop to it.

Those wishing to explore the Caribbean's reefs without damaging them could charter a luxury sailing yacht such as the Matelot.

Capable of sleeping up to six guests, the crewed vessel has its own snorkel gear for exploring the archipelago's coral seascape.

Posted by Chris Yates